Game Faces: District 1’s Gloss

D1M: Gloss

Coif: 4

Pout: 6

Poise: 7

CC Style Score: 6

What a gene pool. Cashmere’s well-chiseled brother wears just the right amount of men’s bronzer to highlight his lantern jaw, chin cleft and strong features. You could cut diamonds with those cheekbones—and thanks to the luxury goods industry of this tribute’s native District 1, we have plenty of those precious sparklers in the Capitol.  

His thick eyebrows are shaped and colored perfectly to showcase his high, intelligent forehead. One thought from our coif judge though: A little gel in his chestnut hair would have added a few intimidating spikes. What do you think?

In terms of his stance, we do love how Gloss’ collar dips just below his defined clavicle and accents his broad chest and shoulders. This Career tribute postures perfectly with his hands behind his back. The effect is strong, classic and foreboding. 

The brand new summer issue of Capitol Couture hits Monday, August 19th with a sly and stunning covergirl! Who could it be? Tune in tomorrow. 

Using cutting edge technology, you can now go INSIDE the Capitol Covergirl adverts for an entirely interactive experience. Download the blippar app then blipp the new Capitol COVERGIRL ad in September VOGUE and see the pages come to life! There are behind the scenes videos, how-tos for each makeup look, a poll, AND a sneak peek at some of the upcoming Capitol COVERGIRL looks, including District 12.

It's SO much fun!

Here's a sneak peek at an upcoming look from District 12:

We think this is the D12 make-up look

 Another district make-up look previewed in the blippar video

Inside the new Capitol COVERGIRL interactive adverts is a tutorial by Capitol makeup artist, Dotti on how to re-create the looks from District 1 and District 4 using makeup from the soon-to-be-released Capitol Collection. Though the collection won't hit stores until October 1st, here's how you can create these looks at home.

District 1: LUXURY

District 4: FISHING

Download the blippar app to blipp the images in the Capitol Covergirl ad and see them come to life on your device. There's lots more to see including behind the scenes video and a poll to choose which look is unveiled next. 

Summer in the Capitol beckons leisure and repose. It’s a season devoted to lighter, frothier fashion and whimsical pursuits.  Join us in stylish recess and loyalty with Zoetic Sol.

Capitol Couture's Summer Issue, Zoetic Sol, has just hit Capitol newstands. This issue's sly and stunning covergirl is none other than District 7's only living female victor, Johanna Mason.

Johanna Mason - Branching Out

The young District 7 victor takes glamour to new heights.

Johanna Mason may hail from the lumber district, but this slip of a victor is anything but green.  Don’t be swayed by her cinnamon sprinkle of freckles and delicate, doll-like features. She was one of the youngest tributes ever reaped in Hunger Games history and her agility with an axe resonates throughout Panem. Sly. Savage. Sangfroid. These are just a few of the adjectives tossed around to describe Mason, who’s known for disarming her victims by feigning weakness.

Mason arrives at her photo shoot for Capitol Couture looking anything but meek. She has a reputation for being snide with her prep team.  District 7’s stylist has been dressing tributes like oak trees and firs for the opening ceremonies ever since the first Hunger Games. Clearly, Mason prefers a more conceptual take on lumber and paper.  “My stylist’s the biggest idiot in the Capitol. Wish I’d gotten Cinna,” she has been known to mumble.

During make up, Mason doesn’t fidget as her artist adheres three-inch eyelashes to her lower lashline that only intensify her disarming gaze. (It’s telling that she doesn’t flinch once, even when dots of hot glue are applied.) A palette of golden metallic eyeshadow brings out the greenish brown of her up-slanted eyes and extended wings of copper cream shadow add depth.  For her lips, a trace of nude liner is filed with a matte soft sienna lipstick and then overlaid with bronze gloss.  Her lustrous chestnut locks, upswept into a coronet of curls, lend an organic majesty to the look. The effect is futuristic forest queen. It’s almost as if this petite tribute has been gilded by a nymph from her very own district.

But it’s her custom gown—a graceful collaboration by Capitol costume designer Trish Summerville and couture designer Jan Taminiau—that transforms her from gladiator to goddess. Constructed of artfully shredded and ruched chiffon and rags, the confection feels like flutters of paper in a gentle breeze.  The use of bark tissue or sculpted cork for the bodice, one sleeve and plumed collar is a nod to the natural resources of District 7.  “I love creating a fantasy around a woman’s body,” says the Dutch designer Taminiau of his creative process. The asymmetry suits Mason and allows us a glimpse of her bold bracelet of bronze nails. The gold ear cuffs by jewelry designer Eddie Borgo supply just the right amount of glint.

Mason poses for a few shots and then slips off her four-inch platform Camilla Skovgaard jagged-wedged sandals. She suddenly looks smaller, even younger—but hardly weak.  Clearly, the odds are ever in her favor and this victor doesn’t need to knock on wood.

Capitol Covergirl District 1 Inspired LookCapitol Covergirl District 4 Inspired Look

CoverGirl’s new The Hunger Games: Catching Fire collection isn’t out until October 1, but the teasers are already rolling in and here's a look at the first two images from their Capitol Covergirl campaign. 

Created by makeup artist Dotti, who used products from the upcoming CoverGirl Capitol Collection, these brand new images will feature over-the-top beauty looks made to represent each district. The line is still being kept pretty tightly under wraps, but we're told it involves Panem-inspired nail polish, nail decals, mascara, lip gloss, and more.

The first two gorgeous visuals are inspired by Luxury (District 1) and Fishing (District 4).

Thanks to fashionista.com for the pics and information!

District 4 Graphics by Aaron DarcyThe Capitol relies on District 4 to provide Panem sustenance from the ocean’s waters. It is imperative that all D4 residents work together for the continued success of our great nation. A united District 4 ensures the health and well-being of all Panem citizens.

PROTECT OUR WATER AND HELP FEED PANEM

Marina Chekov (aka Samantha Sisson) and Aaron Darcy are the founders of PanemKitchen.com. Our favorite place to explore Panem through it's cuisine.

Welcome to Celebrate Your Victors: Spotlight, a weekly feature where we take you back to the moments where those eligible for this year’s Quarter Quell first became victors.

Brutus by Samantha Sisson (@65thvictor)

Brutus Gunn at 17

District Two

Caesar Flickerman shakes his head at a neon green houndstooth tie in the corner of his closet. The frenetic pattern, he says with a sigh, distracted a victor during an interview. He hasn’t worn it since. That’s not to say that the stylish impresario of the Capitol’s airwaves eschews flashy, flamboyant fashion. “Your style should always make people lean closer, not look away,” he says.

No one knows that better than Flickerman—an arbiter of au courant style—who has lent a public voice and persona to tributes and victors alike for the past 40 years. And over that time, he has honed his sartorial sense to a piercing intensity. Suits are a must because they create a cohesive look. His closet, which features tufted ottomans in bone velvet and three full-length mirrors, is painted a soothing shade of pale lavender to match his current hair color.

“I like to complement my surroundings, so I always feel stylish,” he says. “Don’t you love that?” The hue of his bouffant hair changes annually for every Hunger Games. (He still proudly defends the crimson coif he sported for the 73rd Games, even though district darling Katniss told him that it looked like he was bleeding.) “My stylist touches up the color daily and the process is very drying.  I have this wonderful deep conditioner that is custom-blended for me,” he says. With a wink, he adds: “I’m very high maintenance.”

The custom, monogrammed hangers in his closet boast at least 100 suits that are categorized by color. Black and white dominate, but many of the ensembles are hand dusted with glitter or a sheen that makes Flickerman shine on camera. (He has a secret source in the Capitol who coats the fabrics of his suits, but won’t reveal her name.) As for designers, he likes Dries Van Noten for their dark floral fabrics, Comme des Garcons for its architectural forms and Tom Ford for his obsessive-compulsive attention to every stitch and pinstripe—of course, every piece is bespoke and designers present sketches for Flickerman to approve before they create his custom pieces.

Though he is decidedly subjective about fashion, Flickerman often comes across as abjectly neutral on the subject of the tributes. This particular Quarter Quell Hunger Games presents a challenge to even the most determinedly neutral of spectators though. “I think this is going to be the most exciting Hunger Games Panem has ever seen,” he says, gesticulating passionately.  “It’s a much more level playing field, which really raises the stakes.  I am so moved and inspired by the courageousness of each of the tributes.”

Game Faces: Peeta Mellark

D12M: Peeta

Coif: 9

Pout: 7.5

Poise: 10

CC Style Score: 8.5 

Our handsome victor always looks like a leading man on a mission. Perhaps it is the unflinching courage in his eyes or his rough-hewn features. Peeta has the mournful gaze of a puppy dog and the stubborn jaw of a prizefighter. 

In this portrait, our hair stylist awards points for the victor’s thick brows and unified, left leaning hair—it lends the sense of a super hero. The straight line of his lips suggests that he may be clenching his teeth, just as he clenches his fists. The effect is quiet menace.

Of course, we all know that Peeta has a lofty aim in protecting his one and only Katniss. His defensive stance suggests that no victor will get between him and his fiancé. Love can bring on a potent adrenaline rush, which could be the greatest weapon of all.

Due to broadcast licensing laws, the Victory Tour’s stop in the Capitol will be shown in full, across the nation on November 22nd.

Highlights from all 12 District visits will also be available during the broadcast.

In the meantime, please enjoy a sneak peek at the excitement to come:

Katniss & Peeta Enter the Victory Tour party at Snow Mansion with their escort, Effie External view of the lavish Victory Tour party at President Snow's mansion

Coverage of the Victory Tour party by none other than Hunger Games Master of Ceremonies, Caesar Flickerman President Snow pulled out ALL the stops for his Star-Crossed Victors!

Peeta can't take his eyes off his beloved Katniss

For more of Arowana Flounder's brilliant work, please check out her fanfiction, Johanna Mason: They Will Never See Me Cry, and her original story, Archangels. You can follow her on twitter @ArowanaFounder

Keeping Up with Panem’s Happy Couple

Can true love conquer all? We hope so.

With the Quarter Quell fast approaching, we’re thrilled to report that there have been more and more sightings of our beloved Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark throughout the Capitol. Just yesterday, the darling victors from District 12 were spotted walking hand in hand, wearing their custom training gear by Lucas Hugh. One source exclusively tells Capitol Couture that the couple “were smiling and whispering. Peeta seemed to be in a really good mood.”

Katniss & Peeta were spotted walking hand in hand

No doubt, the pressure of the upcoming Hunger Games has put a strain on all of the victors. But for a couple, the grueling physical and emotional preparations must be particularly stressful. To date, no other Hunger Games have ever included romantically involved competitors like Katniss and Peeta. As one renowned relationship expert in the Capitol notes, “Just working together can be very tough on a relationship, so it’s hard to imagine how these two can train for the Quarter Quell and not fray.”

Of course, the many galas and celebration dinners should provide some distraction from the intense conditioning for the Games.  Not to mention, a moment for the two to steal a kiss under the stars. We suspect that District 12 escort Effie Trinket and mentor Haymitch Abernathy will strongly encourage the couple to enjoy the lavish parties. And renegade stylist Cinna will surely surprise us with a bevy of couture confections for gorgeous, lithe Katniss. Rumor has it that something with “feathers” may be unveiled at President Snow’s ball. Will it be emu, ostrich, mockingjay or peacock plumes? Capitol Couture, which has exclusive access to President Snow’s gala and the after-party circuit, will be the first to report on all of the fashion and behind the scenes happenings. Until then, stay chic.

District 2 Graphic by Aaron Darcy

Out of the mountains of District 2 come the raw materials on which Panem's stands. Citizens of District 2, you have a long history of patriotism and honor. Panem was built on the foundation of your hard work. Every worker is essential to the Capitol.

Please wear your protective gear and a smile at all times to ensure a safe and happy work environment!

Marina Chekov (aka Samantha Sisson) and Aaron Darcy are the founders of PanemKitchen.com. Our favorite place to explore Panem through it's cuisine.

Welcome to Celebrate Your Victors: Spotlight, a weekly feature where we take you back to the moments where those eligible for this year’s Quarter Quell first became victors.

Enobaria by Samantha Sisson (@65thvictor)

Enobaria at Fifteen

Sixty-Second Victor

District Two

Enobaria was the type of Tribute we love best in the Capitol - an eager volunteer, cheerful throughout the whole of the Games, and outstandingly vicious. She provided for one of the most entertaining shows in history, and arguably the most memorable conclusion! She charmed everyone with her beauty and ferociousness. Don’t you just love when that combination arises in a Tribute?

No one could forget how Enobaria became a Victor, ripping out her opponent’s throat with her teeth. It was so iconic that, upon her return to the Capitol, she had her teeth cosmetically altered to sharp points, which sparked a brief trend for dental manipulation among the fashionable elite! There are those that say Enobaria was a bit ‘off,’ but we know she’s just an unbeatable fighter!

Happy Homecoming Victors, it’s the District 12 Victory Tour stop!

It’s been a long, long time since a Victory Tour finished in the coal mining district. D12 natives Everdeen and Mellark were greeted at the train by their lovely families in a much less formal reception than we’ve seen at the other tour stops.

The Victors obviously didn’t need a tour of their home town, and declined a look at the coal mines as Katniss’s father worked there during her childhood, and her cousin Gale Hawthorne is currently employed there. Who could forget those broad mining shoulders from the Victors’ first homecoming after the 74th Hunger Games? We’re certainly glad Hawthorne isn’t our cousin, aren’t we ladies and gentlemen?

Katniss' captivating cousin, Gale Hawthorne

We’ve seen our fair share of totty on the Victory Tour so far: Who could forget deliciously, deadly Gloss and his knife-throwing tutorial in District 1? Or Johanna Mason’s colour-blurred dress with its sexy slashes? How about hunky hustler Beau Dalton, who tried to teach Peeta how to herd cattle? Or silver fox, District 3 geneticist Dr Mendal? With any luck, all our district favourites will accompany our Victors in the 74th Victory Tour Official Calendar.

As Katniss and Peeta approached the ancient stone Justice Building, we were  reminded that we’ve also seen some beautiful landmarks during this year’s Tour. From rugged, rocky District 2, to the stormy docks of District 4. We were all brought to tears by the heavenly twinkle lights that bedecked the stage in District 5, and the rainbow streaked waters of District 8 while our breath caught in our throats at the vastness of District 7’s storehouse and the neon beauty of the Manufacturing Settlement Area in District 3. We really have seen the best of our great nation over the past few weeks.

Finally, we couldn’t round up the Victory Tour without discussing the fabulous fashion we’ve seen during our journey. Cinna and Portia have outdone themselves by proving that ‘Showstopping Parade Costumes’ are not their only forte. Dahlia Blueheart, star of Channel 99’s ‘Dieting With Dahlia’, confessed on The Caesar Flickerman Show that she has already purchased Katniss’s raincoat and matching boots from the drizzly visit to District 4, while Caesar added that he had Katniss’s blue velvet dress from the District 2 stop on back order. Caesar’s other guest, District 2 Escort Kiko Lysette, agreed that he planned on wearing Peeta’s Peacekeeper-visor themed sunglasses at his next Reaping Ceremony. The previously unknown District 12 stylists have really come into their own designing the day-to-day wear of the Victors on this tour. Katniss and Peeta have greeted their District cousins in respectfully tailored items befitting of their personalities, rather than ostentatiously parading in couture louder than they are. Bravo to Cinna and Portia for knowing their Victors so well.

And so, with a heavy heart, we leave Katniss and Peeta, home at last with their families. They’ve been on an incredible journey that only one lucky person in all of Panem gets to experience each year, and they were fortunate enough to experience it together. We’ll wave them farewell, but it won’t be long before we’ll see them again during the 75th Hunger Games, the Third Quarter Quell, when everything could change.

Thanks for travelling with us, Panem.

For more of Arowana Flounder's brilliant work, please check out her fanfiction, Johanna Mason: They Will Never See Me Cry, and her original story, Archangels. You can follow her on twitter @ArowanaFounder

It's time once again for Capitol Couture's Game Faces. This week it's District 2 victor, Brutus.

Coif: 6

Pout: 4

Poise: 6

CC Style Score: 5.5

With his reflective pate, barrel chest and merciless glare, this Career Tribute reeks of stamina and menace.  It’s not difficult to imagine Brutus preparing for the Hunger Games by shouldering huge chunks of stone in the quarries of his native District 2.  

Surely, his prep team didn’t require more than 10 minutes for hair and make up, but we appreciate the sheen of his imposing skull.  In the case of Brutus, less is more. His predatory gaze in this portrait suggests that he already sees a victim on the horizon. Is it handsome Finnick or mighty Katniss?

The stance of this volunteer Victor portends violence.  It has been said that Brutus couldn’t wait to get back into the arena to fight. No doubt! Just look at his balled fists, eager to pummel.  

Meet Monica Corcoran Harel, newly minted Editor-in-Chief of Capitol Couture!

Capitol Couture is thrilled to introduce Monica Corcoran Harel as its newly named Editor-in-Chief.  Born and raised in the Capitol—though she has traveled throughout the Districts on various assignments—the award-winning fashion journalist brings her unique take on the culture of style to her native city and beyond.

“Cinna and I met in fifth grade and we bonded over our mutual adoration for vintage Givenchy. He designed a leather bustier for me to wear to prom,” says Corcoran Harel, who started out as a writer for InStyle, covering red carpet galas and profiling celebrities.  

Welcome to Celebrate Your Victors: Spotlight, a weekly feature where we take you back to the moments where those eligible for this year’s Quarter Quell first became victors.

Finnick Odair by Samantha Sisson (@65thvictor)Finnick Odair At Fourteen

Sixty-Fifth Victor

District Four

Once in awhile there is a tribute the Capitol is enamoured with from the beginning, and Finnick Odair is the Capitol’s king. From the moment of his reaping, every eye in the city was trained on him, and that attention hasn’t abated since his victory. From the moment he emerged victorious in the Games, Finnick has enjoyed a life of privilege in the Capitol, frequently called to parties and events for the wealthy elite. His popularity has only risen in the past ten years.

Finnick Odair’s Games are one of the most memorable. Largely left to his own devices, he was gifted the most expensive sponsored item the Games had ever seen - a trident. After making a net out of vegetation in the arena, Finnick became unstoppable. The other tributes were blithely unaware that he was the most deadly opponent they were facing, and he took them down easily and mercilessly. Finnick’s main advantage, should he be reaped for the Quell, is, of course, his face: who wouldn’t want to sponsor him a second time?! What an honour!